Die Marriages & VAMs: Advanced Identification of HK-892, HK-900a, and HK-903 WWI So-Called Dollars (Variation #31/50)

For the advanced collector, identifying the exact pair of dies used to strike a coin is the ultimate thrill. Let me walk you through what I’ve found in one of the most fascinating corners of WWI exonumia.

When most collectors think of World War I exonumia, their minds jump to the ubiquitous Victory Medals, the beautifully designed allegorical plaques, or perhaps the famous “trench art” shell casings. But for those of us who live in the weeds of die states, micro-varieties, and pedigrees, the real numismatic gold lies in the so-called dollars—specifically the HK-892, HK-900a, and HK-903 series. These pieces represent a fascinating intersection of medallic art and minting technology, offering a complex web of die marriages that would make even the most seasoned Morgan Dollar VAM researcher pause.

In my experience grading and attributing these pieces, I’ve found that the WWI so-called dollar series is one of the most underappreciated areas of variety collecting. The sheer number of die marriages, the subtlety of the markers, and the historical significance of the pieces make them a perfect candidate for advanced die pairing attribution. Let me break down the varieties, the die marriages, and the micro-varieties that separate the common from the truly rare.

The Foundation: Overton, Sheldon, and the So-Called Dollar System

Before we get into the specific die marriages, it’s essential to understand the attribution framework. Just as Morgan Dollars are identified by VAM numbers (Van Allen-Mallis) and Peace Dollars by their own VAM varieties, so-called dollars are cataloged using the Hibler-Kappen (HK) numbering system. This system, while not as granular as the VAM system for silver dollars, provides the essential framework for identifying die varieties.

Think of the HK numbers as the Overton numbers of the so-called dollar world. They give us the broad attribution—the “type,” if you will. But just as an Overton number alone doesn’t tell you which die marriage you have (that’s where VAMs come in for Morgans), an HK number alone doesn’t capture the full picture of a so-called dollar. That’s where die pairing attribution comes in.

For the advanced collector, the goal is to move beyond the HK number and identify the specific obverse and reverse die combination. This is where the real numismatic detective work begins.

HK-892: A Case Study in Die Marriage Complexity

Let’s start with HK-892, one of the most fascinating WWI so-called dollars from a die variety perspective. The piece features a 1917 date and depicts a kneeling soldier with a rifle—a powerful image that captures the spirit of American involvement in the Great War.

What makes HK-892 particularly interesting from a die marriage perspective is the diversity of die combinations observed. I’ve examined four distinct die varieties for HK-892, all sharing the 1917 date:

• Variety 1 (Upper Left): Shares the same reverse die as the Upper Right and Lower Right specimens. This reverse die shows no cracks through the flagpole tips, indicating an earlier die state.
• Variety 2 (Upper Right): Same reverse die as Variety 1, but paired with a different obverse die. The ground contours where the soldier is kneeling show distinct differences from the left-side specimens.
• Variety 3 (Lower Right): Same reverse die as Varieties 1 and 2, but in a late die state with prominent cracks through the flagpole tips. The obverse die matches that of the Upper Left specimen.
• Variety 4 (Lower Left): This is where it gets exciting. This specimen features a completely different reverse die with flagpoles that extend through the word “TRUST”—a dramatic die variety marker that is immediately visible to the trained eye. The obverse die matches that of the Upper Left specimen.

The identification of these die marriages requires careful examination of multiple diagnostic points:

1. Flagpole position relative to “TRUST”: Does the flagpole extend through the word or stop short?
2. Die cracks on reverse: Are there cracks through the flagpole tips? This indicates die state and can help confirm die identity across specimens.
3. Obverse ground contours: The shape and detail of the ground where the soldier kneels varies between obverse dies.
4. Die markers and polishing lines: Microscopic examination often reveals die polishing lines that are unique to specific dies.

This level of die marriage analysis is exactly what separates the casual collector from the advanced variety researcher. And the best part? HK-892 is just the beginning.

The 1918 HK-892 Varieties: An Unlisted Discovery

Now here’s where things get truly exciting for the VAM researcher. The forum discussion reveals the existence of 1918-dated specimens that aren’t even mentioned in the standard so-called dollar references. This is the kind of discovery that makes our hearts race.

These 1918 varieties show differences in both the obverse and reverse dies:

• Obverse Die A: The rifle points at the “R” of “ARMY”
• Obverse Die B: The rifle points at the “A” of “ARMY”
• Reverse Die A: 8 stars between the flagpole and Eagle’s wing
• Reverse Die B: 7 stars between the flagpole and Eagle’s wing

The combination of these die markers creates at least four possible die marriages for the 1918 variety alone. And since these aren’t cataloged in the standard references, the first collector to properly attribute and publish these varieties will make a lasting contribution to the hobby.

I cannot overstate the importance of this discovery. In my years of research, I’ve found that the most valuable varieties are often the ones that haven’t been cataloged yet. The 1918 HK-892 varieties represent exactly this kind of opportunity—a rare variety waiting for someone with the patience and eye to document it properly.

HK-900a and HK-903: Top Pops and Pedigree Treasures

Moving on to HK-900a and HK-903, we enter the realm of top-population rarities. The forum discussion mentions specimens that are Top Pops in the NGC census—the highest graded examples known to exist.

HK-903, the “American Saviors of Liberty” so-called dollar, and its French counterpart HK-903A, the “Victory of Right,” represent the pinnacle of WWI medallic art. When these pieces appear in top condition with full pedigree documentation, they command significant premiums. The eye appeal on a well-preserved HK-903 in mint state is something to behold—sharp strike details, original luster, and a rich patina that speaks to over a century of careful preservation.

But here’s the question that keeps me up at night: have the die marriages for HK-900a and HK-903 been thoroughly studied? My suspicion is that they haven’t. The same level of die variety analysis applied to HK-892 could reveal previously unknown die marriages for these issues as well.

Consider the evidence from the forum discussion:

• The HK-903 specimens show variations in loop attachment and ribbon presence
• There are questions about whether the loop was original or added later
• The TrueView images show details that might correlate with specific die states

These observations suggest that there may be multiple die states and possibly multiple die marriages for these issues. The advanced collector should be examining these pieces with the same rigor applied to Morgan Dollar VAM attribution.

The Gold HK-902a: A Discovery Piece

No discussion of WWI so-called dollars would be complete without mentioning the gold HK-902a—a discovery piece that represents the absolute pinnacle of the series. This piece, previously owned by the legendary Steve Tanenbaum, is struck in 22K gold and represents one of the most significant WWI medallic discoveries in recent memory.

The provenance alone elevates this piece into a different stratosphere of collectibility. When a coin passes through the hands of a collector like Tanenbaum, it carries a pedigree that adds immeasurable numismatic value beyond the intrinsic worth of the gold.

The gold HK-902a raises fascinating questions about die marriages. Was this piece struck from the same dies as the bronze examples? Or were special dies prepared for the gold striking? The weight differential alone (gold vs. bronze) would have required different striking pressures, which could result in different die states being visible on the finished piece.

For the variety researcher, the gold HK-902a represents both a challenge and an opportunity. If the dies can be matched to bronze examples, we can begin to understand the production sequence. If they’re unique to the gold striking, we have an entirely new set of die marriages to catalog.

Practical Die Marriage Attribution: A Step-by-Step Guide

Based on my research and the evidence presented in the forum discussion, here’s my recommended approach for attributing WWI so-called dollar die marriages:

Step 1: Establish the HK Number

Begin with the standard attribution. Identify the piece as HK-892, HK-900a, HK-903, or whichever number applies. This gives you the foundation for further analysis.

Step 2: Examine the Obverse Die Markers

Using a minimum of 10x magnification, examine the obverse for:

• Position of key design elements relative to lettering (e.g., rifle pointing at “R” vs. “A” on HK-892 1918 varieties)
• Ground contours and other background details
• Die polishing lines and flow lines
• Any die cracks or chips

Step 3: Examine the Reverse Die Markers

Similarly, examine the reverse for:

• Flagpole position relative to lettering (through “TRUST” vs. stopping short)
• Star counts between design elements
• Die cracks, particularly through flagpole tips
• Die polishing marks and other diagnostic features

Step 4: Document and Compare

Photograph your specimen at high resolution and compare it to known examples. The forum discussion provides excellent reference images that can serve as a starting point for comparison.

Step 5: Cross-Reference with Population Data

Check the NGC census for your variety. If your piece is a Top Pop or low-population variety, this adds to its significance. The forum discussion notes that there are only 5 looped examples of certain types listed in the NGC census—this kind of population data is invaluable for the variety researcher.

Looped vs. Unlooped: A Die Marriage Consideration

One of the most interesting aspects of WWI so-called dollar attribution is the question of looped vs. unlooped specimens. The forum discussion reveals an important observation: unlooped versions tend to have a much redder copper color compared to the beige-er bronze color of looped versions.

This color difference could indicate:

• Different planchet stock: Unlooped versions may have been struck on different planchets, possibly at a different time or for a different purpose.
• Different finishing processes: The loop application process may have involved heat treatment that altered the surface color.
• Different storage conditions: The looped versions, having been worn on uniforms, may have developed a different patina over time.

For the die marriage researcher, this raises an important question: are the looped and unlooped versions struck from the same dies? Or are there separate die marriages for each format? This is an area that deserves further study.

Clasp Variations and Their Impact on Attribution

The Victory Medal’s clasp system adds another layer of complexity to our attribution work. As noted in the forum discussion:

• Medal without clasps: Distributed to troops who served in the U.S. only
• Medal with single clasp: Awarded to those who served overseas but not in battle
• Medal with multiple clasps: Given to men who participated in more than one major operation

While the clasps themselves aren’t part of the die marriage, they provide important context for understanding the production and distribution of these medals. The clasp system also means that collectors should be aware of the different configurations and their relative rarity.

The forum discussion notes that looped medals are much more common than unlooped versions, which makes sense given the huge number of people who fought in the war and qualified for the looped medal. But this also means that unlooped versions, when found in high condition, can command significant premiums.

The Bock Plaque and Other Exonumia: Die Marriage Connections

The forum discussion also mentions several important WWI plaques, including the heavy cast bronze plaque marked “COPYRIGHTED 1918 BY R.W. BOCK.” While these are cast rather than struck, they raise interesting questions about die marriage attribution.

Cast bronze pieces can show variations from:

• Different molds or patterns used in production
• Wear on the mold over time, resulting in softer details on later casts
• Different finishing techniques applied after casting

These variations, while not technically “die marriages” in the struck coin sense, are analogous to the die state variations we see in struck pieces. The advanced collector should be aware of these variations and document them accordingly.

Building a Reference Collection

For the serious WWI so-called dollar variety researcher, building a reference collection is essential. Here’s what I recommend:

1. Acquire multiple examples of each HK number: You need to see the variations to understand them.
2. Document everything: Photograph each piece from multiple angles, noting all die markers and state indicators.
3. Connect with other researchers: The forum discussion demonstrates the power of collaborative research. Share your findings and learn from others.
4. Check auction records: Past sales can provide clues about rarity and help you identify previously unknown varieties.
5. Consider professional certification: Having your key varieties certified by NGC or PCGS adds credibility to your research and helps establish the variety in the marketplace.

The Investment Potential of Die Marriage Varieties

Let’s talk about the elephant in the room: money. Die marriage varieties, when properly attributed and documented, can command significant premiums. Here’s why:

• Rarity: Many die marriages exist in very low populations. The forum discussion notes that some varieties have only 5 examples listed in the NGC census.
• Historical significance: WWI exonumia is inherently collectible due to its connection to one of the most significant events in modern history.
• Growing awareness: As more collectors become aware of die marriage varieties, demand for properly attributed pieces will increase.
• Pedigree value: Pieces with documented pedigrees, like the Steve Tanenbaum gold HK-902a, carry additional value.

The key is to identify and attribute varieties before they become widely known. This requires the kind of detailed die marriage analysis we’ve been discussing throughout this article.

Actionable Takeaways for Buyers and Sellers

Based on my research and the evidence from the forum discussion, here are my actionable recommendations:

For Buyers:

• Always examine WWI so-called dollars for die marriage varieties before purchasing
• Pay particular attention to HK-892 and its 1918 varieties—these may be significantly undervalued
• Look for unlooped versions, which appear to be rarer than looped examples
• Check the NGC census for population data before making significant purchases
• Consider the historical context—pieces with documented provenance or connection to notable veterans carry additional value

For Sellers:

• Get your key varieties certified and attributed before selling
• Document any die marriage characteristics that make your piece unique
• Research the pedigree of your piece—previous ownership by notable collectors like Steve Tanenbaum adds value
• Time your sales to coincide with WWI anniversaries or commemorative events
• Consider the clasp configuration when pricing Victory Medals—multiple clasps indicate combat service and may command premiums

The Future of WWI So-Called Dollar Die Marriage Research

As I look ahead, I see tremendous potential for WWI so-called dollar die marriage research. The forum discussion has barely scratched the surface of what’s possible. Here are some areas that deserve further investigation:

• Comprehensive die marriage study of HK-892: The four varieties identified in the forum discussion are just the beginning. A systematic study could reveal additional die marriages and states.
• 1918 variety cataloging: The unlisted 1918 varieties need to be formally cataloged and published.
• HK-900a and HK-903 die marriage analysis: These top-pop varieties deserve the same level of scrutiny applied to HK-892.
• Gold HK-902a die matching: Determining whether the gold striking used the same dies as bronze examples is a critical research question.
• Looped vs. unlooped die comparison: Are there separate die marriages for looped and unlooped versions? This question needs a definitive answer.

Conclusion: The Thrill of the Hunt

The world of WWI so-called dollar die marriages is a treasure trove waiting to be fully explored. From the four distinct die marriages of HK-892 to the unlisted 1918 varieties, from the top-pop HK-900a and HK-903 specimens to the legendary gold HK-902a, there is no shortage of numismatic mysteries to solve.

For the advanced collector, the identification of die marriages represents the pinnacle of the hobby. It requires patience, careful observation, and a deep understanding of the minting process. But the rewards—both intellectual and financial—are substantial.

The forum discussion that inspired this article demonstrates the power of collaborative research. By sharing images, observations, and insights, collectors can build a collective knowledge base that benefits everyone. I encourage all advanced collectors to contribute to this effort by documenting their own die marriage discoveries and sharing them with the community.

Whether you’re a seasoned VAM researcher looking for a new challenge, a WWI history buff seeking to deepen your understanding of the era, or an investor looking for undervalued numismatic opportunities, the die marriages of WWI so-called dollars offer something for everyone. The key is to look beyond the surface, to see the subtle differences that reveal the hidden history of each piece.

As we continue to study these remarkable pieces, we honor not just the artistry and craftsmanship of their creation, but also the memory of the millions who served in the Great War. Every die marriage tells a story—of the dies that struck the metal, the workers who operated the presses, and the soldiers and civilians who carried these pieces as symbols of service and sacrifice. That’s what makes this work so meaningful, and why I’ll continue to pursue it with passion and dedication.

Happy hunting, and may your loupe always reveal something new.

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